Crosspoint assistance for the low income in Wiltshire

One of the leading charities in Westbury is Crosspoint. The organisation runs a drop in centre that is open three days per week and programmes are run in partnership with other agencies, such as the Wiltshire Food Bank and housing authorities. The Christian charity aims to help anyone that is struggling, no matter their age, race, or religion.

The centre is open to anyone in need. Whether the person is distressed or facing a one time crisis, free advice and information can be provided. There are two main services provided by Crosspoint, and those include free food and debt counselling. But the volunteers at the charity can signpost a client to any other number of schemes in Wiltshire, including council services or charities such as West of England Baptist Church.

The programmes are aimed at combating poverty in the county. While they partner with churches in the area, they are independent of the Christian services. So this means anyone can seek help.

Free money and debt advice is provided from a total of six trained counsellors on site. Crosspoint has been authorized by FCS to provide this service. Based on the results of the assessment/interview done, the client will be provided the support they need to address a financial challenge with a creditor.

The Crosspoint money management advice is free to people from the Westbury area. The charity will offer suggestions on what can be done to pay debt arrears and to improve the overall financial situation. If need be, the client can use the computer or phone to make calls, and this access is also free.

Other support is offered too. Some of their clients think that Crosspoint is providing CAB type advice. While this is not the aim, in fact much of what they have does match up with that agency. This is the case as they offer support with everything from housing to health or even emotional support. Examples of the assistance provided is below.

-Job counselling services include use of a free phone, CV preparation and review, and a computer.
-Form filling for benefits, including help in applying for welfare in Westbury or other council or government schemes.
-Crosspoint also holds sessions with local housing association, including Selwood Housing.
-Practical support includes clothing or vouchers to the food bank noted below.

Crosspoint Health Counselling Services often come with a small cost, but some are free for people that do not have the money to pay for services. There is one to one counselling from specialists, and this too is offered at the drop in centre. One key programme is for mental illness as well as Psychology, and this is done in partnership with the White Horse Health Centre. There are twelve sessions provided each month for this.

Boxes of food as well as vouchers are passed out as well. They partner with charities in the area to offer boxes of groceries to families on a low income. A parcel provided will have up to three days of tinned or fresh food in it. This is an emergency service in Wiltshire and meant to provide the family time to get long term support. The local partners on this service are the Westbury schools, health workers, and CAB in Wiltshire.

Crosspoint is open three days per week from their drop in centre at Albion House, 1 Market Place, Westbury, Wiltshire, BA13 3DE. The phone number is 01373 824330.